As Autumn Unfolds

as autumn unfolds
close-up of an orange maple leaf with a heart-shaped whole in the middle; Image courtesy of Rebekka D via Pixabay.

We truly have so much that is needed in the world around us. Our continuous question is how do we share what we have in a way that makes a difference to those we encounter?

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Fall is suddenly upon is in more ways than one. The weather for sure is currently indicating that summer is over, though we will likely have more warm days. And, of course, fall officially begins this evening at 8:03 Central. Our church year is already well under way, though it is hard to believe that we are actively planning for Advent.

As this autumn unfolds around us, the sermon series is “Tending the Bodymind.” We will explore together how we can be better stewards of our resources as individuals, as a congregation, and as part of a wider community. We truly have so much that is needed in the world around us. Our continuous question is how do we share what we have in a way that makes a difference to those we encounter?

During my travels this summer, I saw too many small, ultra-conservative churches, some with the confederate flag right in their parking lots. It was disheartening to be reminded how real and present these kind of churches are in our country, some not all that far away.

I found myself asking again and again, how progressive churches can counterbalance the presence of these fear-based congregations. The obvious answer is that we need to free ourselves from any lingering fears that bind us so that we can live Love out loud.

Yes, there is a lot of fear and destruction in the world around us. We do not need to participate in it. We can offer a different response, a response of Love. Please join us this fall as we explore new avenues of being the Bodymind of Christ. As always, you can join on Zoom or in the room. 

There is room for all. There is need for all. There is Love for all.

About Rachael Keefe

Rev. Dr. Rachael Keefe is the pastor of Living Table United Church of Christ. She was called to Living Table in 2015 after serving in many varied ministry settings since her ordination in 1992. She holds graduate degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary and Andover Newton Seminary at Yale (formerly Andover Newton Theological School). Her ministry and leadership often center around advocacy and accessibility. Her writing has been published by Chalice Press, The Christian Century, Red Letter Christians, Working Preacher, RevGalBlogPals, and others. She is grateful to be in ministry with Living Table today.

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